Erik Anthony Rucker Sr. was born on December 19, 1971, to Joseph Rucker and Pauline Sanders. He departed this life on April 13, 2026.

Erik was born in Chicago, Illinois, and later relocated to Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1994, where he built his life and raised his family. He worked in janitorial services for many years until a back injury led to his early retirement. In 1998, Erik was united in marriage to Tamara Donnelly.

Affectionately known as “E” or “Iceberg,” Erik was well known for his cooking, especially his famous potato salad, which brought family and friends together. He loved all sports, especially football, and enjoyed watching wrestling. Erik will be remembered for his sense of humor and his no-nonsense attitude, but above all, for the deep love he had for his family.

Erik was preceded in death by his sons, Erik Jr. and Zion; his niece, Maronique Sanders; and his grandmothers, Mary Rucker and Luella Mullins.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving children, Aaliyah Rucker and De’Andre Rucker; his parents, Pauline Sanders and Joseph Rucker; his mother-in-law, Carolyn Benford; his siblings, Joseph Sanders, Latrice Towns, Otis Rucker, and Deitra Rucker; his nieces, Tierra Sanders and Kierra Sanders; his nephews, Deshaun Jones and Malyk Sanders; and his beloved grandchildren, Javon Rucker, Jahiem Rucker, De’Andre Rucker Jr., Jewel Hall-Rucker, and Amir Gray, along with a host of cousins, extended relatives, and friends.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved by all who knew him.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from 2:00 pm until 3:00 pm, on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the Walker Funeral Home - Walnut Hills Chapel, 2625 Gilbert Avenue, Cincinnati (45206). The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation, beginning at 3:00 pm. Friends and family will gather to share memories, find solace in one another's company, and honor the legacy he leaves behind.

We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Rucker Sr. family. Please click the "Tribute Wall" icon above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the Rucker Sr. family during this difficult time. Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.